If the first row of worshippers in the mosque is separated from part of itself by the pulpit, is it considered the first row in prayer?
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The questioner : If the first row of worshippers in the mosque is separated from part of itself by the pulpit, is it considered the first row in prayer?
The Shaykh : Yes, the first row is the one immediately behind the imam. If this row, which is separated by the pulpit, is the one immediately behind the imam, then it is the first row in all cases. The second row is what follows it, and so on until the rows end.
However, if the mosque is spacious, the imam should delay his position so that the row behind him is connected, with no separation by the pulpit. This is because the Companions (may Allah be pleased with them) avoided breaking the row between the pillars, as they cut the row. But if it is not possible, such as when the number of people is large and the imam must move forward, then breaking the row with the pulpit is for a need, and there is no harm in it.
The Shaykh : Yes, the first row is the one immediately behind the imam. If this row, which is separated by the pulpit, is the one immediately behind the imam, then it is the first row in all cases. The second row is what follows it, and so on until the rows end.
However, if the mosque is spacious, the imam should delay his position so that the row behind him is connected, with no separation by the pulpit. This is because the Companions (may Allah be pleased with them) avoided breaking the row between the pillars, as they cut the row. But if it is not possible, such as when the number of people is large and the imam must move forward, then breaking the row with the pulpit is for a need, and there is no harm in it.